TL/DR –
US presidential candidates Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley, both of Indian descent, are engaging in a feud that includes personal attacks in the race for the Republican nomination. Indian Americans are divided on whether this feud mirrors larger community tensions, but it’s undisputed that Indian Americans are becoming more politically prominent. Some argue that identity is playing a significant role in both candidates’ campaigns, with Ramaswamy openly embracing his Hinduism and Haley speaking of her conversion to Christianity.
Ramaswamy vs Haley: Indian-Americans Grab Political Limelight in US Presidential Race
US presidential hopefuls Vivek Ramaswamy and Nikki Haley, both children of Indian immigrants, have been heavily embroiled in personal attacks this campaign season. Ramaswamy labelled the former South Carolina governor and UN ambassador as corrupt over her corporate work, while Haley retaliated by branding him untrustworthy.
Despite the gruesome political drama, these candidates are fostering a significant increase in political prominence for Indian-Americans, the ethnic group with the highest average household income in the US. This year’s ballot also sees Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris, with Indian and Jamaican heritage.
“Indian Americans have had a quicker journey than other immigrant communities in terms of political success,” said Raj Goyle, a former state lawmaker in Kansas and co-founder of Indian American Impact, a South Asian American political group.
Vivek Ramaswamy denounces Nikki Haley during a Republican presidential primary debate
Jim WATSON
Ramaswamy unabashedly embraces his Hindu identity, raising eyebrows by infusing his religion into his political endeavors. His political rival, Haley, however, converted to Christianity and adopted her husband’s surname.
Many Indian-Americans, including writer Dipka Bhambhani, feel their community’s representation, while a significant step forward, has also exposed internal divides over religion, socio-economic status, and lifestyle choices. Yet, she emphasized the American identity of the candidates and the values of family commitment they uphold.
—
Read More US Political News